News
The world’s top service oriented Spa’s revealed: Maldives wins again
Maldives Promotion House – The annual announcement of the World Luxury Spa Awards winners marks the highlight of a year-long search for the very best spas on the global front. Maldives offers number of world class spas and spas from Maldives were among the winners at this year’s awards.
- One&Only Spa by ESPA Reethi Rah Best Luxury Wellness Spa – World
- Talise Spa at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi Best Luxury Emerging Spa – Indian Ocean
- Coco Spa Maldives Best Luxury Fitness Spa – Indian Ocean
- Araamu Spa Maldives Best Luxury Wellness Spa – Indian Ocean
- One&Only Spa by ESPA Reethi Rah Best Luxury Beauty Spa – Indian Ocean
- Six Senses Spa Laamu, Maldives Best Luxury Emerging Spa – Maldives
- Six Senses Spa Laamu, Maldives Best Luxury Destination Spa – Maldives
- Six Senses Spa Laamu, Maldives Best Luxury Resort Spa – Maldives
- Angsana Spa Velavaru Maldives Best Luxury Beauty Spa – Maldives
The World Luxury Spa Awards commends and recognise outstanding achievements in service excellence, giving thanks to spas that have excelled. The World Luxury Spa Awards programme reward those spas that have raised the bar of service excellence within a highly competitive industry over the past year. The World Luxury Spa Awards congratulate unsurpassed service excellence and put the spotlight on those spas representing only the finest standards.
The categories awarded in the 2013 World Luxury Spa Awards included Best Luxury Hotel Spa, Best Luxury Mineral Spring Spa, Best Luxury Safari Spa, Best Luxury Emerging Spa, Best Luxury Fitness Spa, Best Luxury Destination Spa, Best Luxury Wellness Spa, Best Luxury Resort Spa, Best Luxury Spa Group, Best Luxury Day Spa, Best Luxury Beauty Spa, Best Luxury Boutique Spa and Best Luxury Medical Spa.
“2012 has been a very interesting year for the spa industry, with many new spa additions and the level of competition where exceptional evident from the calibre of spas being nominated,” says Marinique de Wet, Executive Manager of the World Luxury Spa Awards. “We’ve never received so many nomination entries like we did this year, and it has been a truly thrilling experience to see who eventually came out on top!”
Open to luxury spas in the respective categories, the World Luxury Spa Awards™ are recognized and respected on the global front by the public and media at large and are universally acknowledged as the world’s leading awards initiative for luxury spas. France24 is the proud media partner to the World Luxury Spa Awards.
The winners and finalists were selected by means of an annual voting process where thousands of spa guests worldwide have been given the opportunity to vote online in order to have the fairest judging process possible. Competing spas in 2013 included small sized privately owned spas to globally renowned spa groups.
Official voting closed on the 18th of March and the response and comments from voters were phenomenal. Thousands of votes & feedback came in from across the globe and as a result key brands and independent spas were rewarded for their extraordinary efforts. Award winning spas are announced on a country, continent and global basis.They stood up to the highest expectations and where tested by discerning spa-goers looking for the ultimate experience where only the absolute best is acceptable.
Marinique de Wet, Executive Manager, World Luxury Spa Awards™ said: “The World Luxury Spa Awards™ is the highest accolade a spa can ever hope to receive. For participants the World Luxury Spa Awards™ challenge service excellence and highlight the importance of constant improvement. The Award truly puts the Award winning spas ahead of their peers from a marketing perspective. In addition to the honour, prestige and global exposure of winning a World Luxury Spa Award, winners share in fantastic marketing benefits including online profiles and marketing guides that further build staff moral and maintain credibility.
“Consumers are increasingly using the list of winners and finalists as a reliable guide and means of reassurance when choosing their next spa destination evident from increasing visits to the Awards website”, says de Wet.
“In these tough economic times our spas and wellness retreats have shown their anticipation to succeed and have come out even stronger than before. The World Luxury Spa Awards are there to recognise the very best of the best and raise the bar of service excellence even higher than before”, says Mrs Marinique de Wet. “We are delighted that the Spa Awards has become such an important highlight on the spa industry calendar and we are looking forward to an exciting 2014 registration year ahead”.
Recipients of this prestigious accolade see challenges as opportunities and stay ahead with strategic changes allowing facilities and service to stay on par with global trends. We congratulate all our winners further to this outstanding achievement.”
News
.Here Baa Atoll completes two-island concept with opening of Nowhere Private Island
In a destination celebrated for its extraordinary private island retreats, .Here Baa Atoll introduces a different perspective on luxury with the opening of Nowhere Private Island, completing its visionary two-island concept in the Maldives. Set within the pristine surroundings of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the arrival of Nowhere marks the final chapter in the creation of one of the Maldives’ most intimate ultra-luxury retreats, where just nine extraordinary residences are spread across two islands connected by a natural sandbank.
The opening follows the debut of Somewhere in December 2025, bringing together two contrasting yet complementary worlds. Somewhere, home to seven expansive beachfront and overwater residences, celebrates the pleasures of connection, discovery and shared experiences. Nowhere, by contrast, is an invitation to retreat entirely, offering the rare privilege of an island reserved exclusively for one group of guests. Together, they bring to life .Here’s defining philosophy, the Art of Duality, where the freedom to embrace vibrant island living or complete seclusion exists within a single destination.

A Private Island, Entirely Your Own
Conceived as a sanctuary of absolute privacy, Nowhere Private Island is home to just two extraordinary residences, collectively offering eight bedrooms and more than 3,300 square metres of living space. Reserved together as a single private island experience, the residences accommodate up to 24 guests, making Nowhere an exceptional setting for multigenerational families, intimate celebrations and discerning travellers seeking a world entirely their own.
The five-bedroom Presidential Residence, spanning approximately 2,399 square metres, forms the centrepiece of the island. Beyond its expansive living and entertaining spaces, the residence features a private cinema, fitness studio, sauna, steam room and dedicated wellness facilities. Complementing it is the three-bedroom Lagoon Residence, offering a further 930 square metres of beautifully considered living space overlooking the turquoise waters of Baa Atoll.
Throughout the island, generous indoor and outdoor spaces flow effortlessly into one another, creating an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Private pools, expansive terraces and uninterrupted ocean views invite guests to experience the Maldives at their own pace, whether gathering for a leisurely afternoon or finding moments of solitude against the endless horizon.
Architecture in Harmony with Nature
The architectural identity of Nowhere reflects a philosophy of quiet grandeur, where space, proportion and the surrounding landscape take precedence over ornamentation. Conceived by Singapore-based Kulör Group, with interiors by internationally acclaimed design studio Muza Lab and architectural contributions from Topo Design Studio, the island offers a thoughtful interpretation of contemporary tropical living.
Expansive volumes, natural materials and restrained architectural lines create a seamless relationship between the residences and their surroundings. Within, a sophisticated palette of soft, earthy tones, tactile finishes and layered textures draws inspiration from the island’s natural beauty, allowing light, water and landscape to become integral elements of the design.
This sensitivity extends to the island’s environmental approach. Situated within one of the world’s most remarkable marine ecosystems, the development has been guided by careful consideration of the natural setting, from the positioning of structures to the selection of materials and the integration of architecture into the landscape. The result is a retreat that feels distinctly contemporary while remaining deeply connected to its Maldivian surroundings.

A World of Personalised Experiences
At Nowhere, the experience of luxury is shaped entirely around the individual. Each stay is supported by .Here’s signature Roohu service, with dedicated butlers anticipating every detail and curating experiences around guests’ personal preferences. From seamless arrivals at the island’s private jetty to thoughtfully orchestrated celebrations, the emphasis remains on intuitive hospitality that is both highly personalised and discreet.
Dining follows the same philosophy of freedom and flexibility. An on-demand private chef creates bespoke culinary experiences, whether an intimate dinner beneath the stars, a leisurely family gathering on a private terrace or a specially curated menu served within the residences. Around-the-clock in-residence dining and personalised mixology ensure that every occasion unfolds effortlessly.
For those wishing to explore beyond their private sanctuary, .Here’s signature overwater restaurant, SAFAR, presents a world-influenced culinary journey under the direction of Executive Chef Georgios Vasilopoulos. Fresh seafood, seasonal ingredients and fire-led preparations from the Josper Grill form the foundation of a menu inspired by flavours from across the globe. At SAFAR Bar, handcrafted cocktails evoke the spirit of travel and discovery, offering another perspective on the destination’s distinctive dining experience.

Wellness in Complete Seclusion
Wellness at Nowhere is equally intimate. Exclusively available to guests residing on the private island, Fehi Wellness offers a tranquil setting for personalised treatments, restorative rituals and mindful experiences. With a dedicated couples treatment room and yoga chamber, the space has been conceived as an extension of the island’s philosophy, encouraging guests to disconnect from the demands of everyday life and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.
Whether through a private wellness ritual, a sunrise yoga session or simply the freedom to enjoy uninterrupted time in nature, the experience is defined by an unhurried approach to wellbeing.
Two Islands, Endless Possibilities
While Nowhere offers the ultimate expression of seclusion, the wider .Here experience is designed around freedom of choice. Guests can move between the privacy of Nowhere and the more social atmosphere of Somewhere, enjoying the distinctive experiences of both islands.
The experience extends further through complimentary access to the dining venues, wellness offerings and leisure experiences of neighbouring Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort. Celebrated for its vibrant island spirit, diverse culinary experiences and iconic two-kilometre sandbank, Finolhu offers an energetic complement to .Here’s understated sophistication.
With the completion of Nowhere Private Island, .Here Baa Atoll brings its original vision to life: a destination where extraordinary scale is matched by an exceptionally limited number of residences, and where the greatest luxury lies in the freedom to choose how time is spent.
In a world increasingly defined by constant connection, .Here offers something altogether more elusive: the space to be present, the freedom to be elsewhere and the rare possibility of being Somewhere and Nowhere at once.
For more information, please visit the resort’s website.
News
COLOURS OF OBLU reveals festive experiences for families and couples across four resorts
This festive season, COLOURS OF OBLU invites travellers to trade the winter chill for turquoise waters, sun-drenched beaches and a season of joyful island experiences across the brand.
From the natural reef setting of OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO and the chic charm of OBLU SELECT Sangeli, to the adults-focused island escape of OBLU SELECT Lobigili and the vibrant energy of OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, each resort presents its own take on the festive season, bringing together celebration, discovery and the easy-going spirit of island life.
Festive programmes at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili will run from 22 December 2026 to 9 January 2027, while OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO and OBLU SELECT Sangeli will host their celebrations from 22 December 2026 to 7 January 2027.
This year, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, Reef of Wonder draws inspiration from the island’s vibrant marine life. Festivities include a reef-themed parade for younger guests, an Indian Ocean-inspired Christmas dinner and an elegant New Year’s Eve celebration, bringing the spirit of the surrounding waters into the holiday programme. Guests can also discover the island’s renowned house reef, adding an extra dimension of marine adventure to their festive escape.

At OBLU SELECT Sangeli, A Fisherman’s Tale pays tribute to the Maldives’ fishing heritage and the traditions of community and shared abundance. Christmas brings carol singing, island entertainment and an Indian Ocean-themed feast, while New Year’s Eve features a themed dinner, celebrations on the beach and fireworks. The resort offers a distinctive backdrop for festive moments, with opportunities to enjoy both lively gatherings and the tranquillity of island life.

Designed exclusively for adults, OBLU SELECT Lobigili presents A Festive Season, Made for Two, with a focus on romance and meaningful moments together. Christmas Eve sets the tone for intimate celebrations, while New Year’s Eve takes on the glamour of the Great Gatsby era, with live performances and a celebratory countdown. Couples can also enjoy private beach dinners, spa experiences and underwater dining throughout their stay.

Meanwhile, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi embraces A Golden Festive Season, bringing a touch of golden glamour to its vibrant setting. Blending festive sparkle with lively entertainment and shared family moments, the programme begins with Santa’s arrival on Sunset Beach and a special Christmas lunch. The celebrations build towards a lively New Year’s Eve, with a cocktail gathering, gala dinner, live entertainment and a spectacular fire show, culminating in fireworks at midnight. The season captures Ailafushi’s playful spirit and promises memorable moments for all ages.

Across COLOURS OF OBLU, the festive season is an invitation to experience the Maldives beyond the traditional postcard setting – through authentic island moments, ocean adventures, shared meals and celebrations created around the joy of being together.
Whether guests are travelling as a family, with friends or as a couple, each resort offers a different way to experience the festive season while staying true to the relaxed, colourful character of COLOURS OF OBLU.
Cooking
Award-winning Pastry Chef Elena Nabiullina brings contemporary pâtisserie to The Nautilus Maldives
The Nautilus Maldives welcomes award-winning pastry chef and CREAMO founder Elena Nabiullina from 7 to 12 November 2026 as part of its Masters for Masters series. Her residency will bring contemporary pâtisserie to the island through a guest dessert masterclass and a special creation offered to all guests staying during the week.
At The Nautilus, culinary experiences begin with individual tastes and curiosity. Within this spirit of unscripted dining, Elena invites guests to explore the imagination, precision and care that transform familiar ingredients into memorable desserts.
Her journey began in her mother’s kitchen, making nut-shaped biscuits filled with condensed milk and delicate pastries. Although she initially pursued a career in industrial and civil construction, an encounter with French chef David Emmerle inspired her to turn a lifelong fascination with confectionery into a profession. Elena studied at the Ragout School and interned at Akrame in Paris, further refining her craft through training with Cédric Grolet, Garuharu, Ramon Morato, Jordi Bordas and Karim Bourgi. Her specialist education includes Valrhona’s private school in Dubai, Carpigiani Gelato University and the Institut National de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie in Rouen, France.

Named Pastry Chef of the Year in 2024 by WHERETOEAT, she has contributed to more than 14 restaurant openings. She also served as pastry chef at Café Garage at the Garage Museum and founded CREAMO, her artisanal gelato brand. Her work combines contemporary technique, unexpected flavours and a thoughtful balance of textures and presentation.
On 8 November, Elena will lead a dessert masterclass for guests, sharing the techniques and creative inspiration behind her signature CREAMO cookies. Easy to recreate at home, these treats will allow guests to bring a taste of the experience into their own kitchens. Throughout the residency, all guests staying at The Nautilus will also receive her signature Bublik, an elegantly crafted, ring-shaped dessert, presented with a specially designed card sharing the story behind Elena’s creation. The Masters for Masters series brings accomplished creators to The Nautilus to share the passions that define their work. Elena’s residency offers a personal encounter with the chef behind the craft, with time to learn, exchange ideas and savour her artistry in the intimacy of a private island home.
To learn more about Chef Elena Nabiullina Residency at The Nautilus Maldives, visit here.
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